It is quite important to have a German driving licence if you are in Germany for a long period of time.
If you want to live in a sparsely populated area that is most likely in a remote city or village, getting proper public transportation services may be hard.
In such a case, getting a driving licence and buying a vehicle will be necessary.
In this post, we will highlight everything you need to know about getting a German driving licence.
Is your foreign licence valid in Germany?
Citizens of EU countries can use driving licences from their respective country. Visitors from non-EU countries can use their original document if it is translated by recognized automobile authority.
This privilege is valid for the first six months, after which drivers are required to transfer their documents in a process known as “Umschreibung”.
How and where to register for a driving licence
After six months of using your foreign non-EU driving licence, you need to apply for the Fahrerlaubnisbehörde or German Driving Licence. Log on to MeldeBox to find a registration office near you.
The office will determine whether you can receive a licence transfer or recommend a test for you. You might want to familiarize yourself with the traffic signs and rules before your test.
Documents needed for a successful licence transfer
- Your passport or ID card
- A borderless 35 x 45 mm photo
- A valid foreign driver’s licence
- Proof that you completed a first-aid course
- Proof that you are a resident of Germany.
- 40 euros cash to pay for the licence fee if tests aren’t required.
You might have to wait for up to six weeks before your licence is ready.
How you can get hold of a German driving licence
If you want to get your first driving licence, here is what you need to do:
- Register at a “Fahrschule” or driving school. There is a higher chance of finding an instructor who is familiar with your language in big cities.
- Take the “Erste Hilfe” or first aid course.
- Visit an ophthalmologist or optician for the “Sehtest”
To be able to drive category C vehicles (lorries) or D (buses), additional documents need to be provided. Find more about licence categories on BMVI.
What is the cost?
The cost is largely dependent on the number of sessions that your instructor feels are ready to prepare you as a driver. As such, it may go beyond 1000 euros.
Do you have more questions about this topic? You can ask us privately or ask the public in our Quick Question community.
